Best Computer Science colleges in the U.S. 2024

Students graduating with an associate degree in computer science gain the expertise needed to help run the digital world. From video games to mobile phone apps, computer science associate degree students often graduate in just two years and often quickly secure lucrative jobs in the tech economy.

Imparting both technical training and theoretical, STEM-based knowledge, an associate degree in computer science supplies learners with the foundational knowledge to tackle careers as computer programmers, web designers, and computer support specialists. During their degree, students often choose from academic concentrations spanning from computer programming to artificial intelligence.

Computer Science Associate Degree Salaries and Career Outlook

Under the computer science umbrella, degree-seekers can often select from degrees like an associate of science (AS), an associate of applied science (AAS), or an associate of arts (AA). Additionally, some students even complete an associate of applied business (AAB) if they plan on utilizing both technical and entrepreneurial skills.

Computer Science Associate Degree Specializations

As computer science is a relatively expansive field, students commonly have the option to select a specialized concentration when earning their associate degree. Typical academic concentrations include:

• Computer programming
• Artificial intelligence
• Web development
• Video game design

However, note that options vary by institution. 

Additionally, selecting an associate of arts track is a useful path if you’re planning on transferring to a bachelor’s program.

Courses in Computer Science Associate Degree Programs

Focusing on the essential computer fundamentals that students need when beginning their careers, courses often address technical areas, including database design, networking, and programming. Classes and requirements vary between programs and specializations, but students often have access to professional training and preparation for further undergraduate work.

• Introduction to Computer Science: Covering the fundamentals required for a career in computer science, this course offers a wide lens look at the discipline while exploring topics like algorithms and programming. Other areas of focus include network security, data management, and software engineering.
• Database Management: Utilizing foundational knowledge of data science and encoding, students learn to build databases and familiarize themselves with SQLs (structured query language) while addressing complex data sets and covering database design methods.
• Computer Networks: Acting as an introduction to computer networks and network technology, this course covers local area networks and wide area networks. Additionally, students learn about network functionality and design while gaining experience with various network hardware like switches and routers.
• Web Development: Often utilizing experiential learning, this course offers students the chance to use common programming languages like HTML, Java, and CSS. Typical focus areas include designing interactive graphics, methods for writing scripts, and web development and applications.

How Long Does a Computer Science Associate Degree Take To Finish?

Like most associate degrees, full-time students can expect to complete their computer science track in about two years. Over the two years, degree-seekers typically complete about 60 credits worth of academic requirements, including general education coursework, core computer science classes, and technical electives. Part-time students balancing personal and professional obligations typically finish in three to five years, depending on the course load.

Skills Learned in a Computer Science Associate Program

The best computer science associate degree programs supply students with the technical and theoretical skills needed to enter the workforce or enroll at a four-year institution. In addition to technical training, associate degree graduates gain essential soft skills like problem solving and communication.

Common degree outcomes include competency in computer languages like Java, C++, and Visual Basic. Additionally, students learn to develop and employ algorithms and gain experience with general-purpose programming. Alongside computer science coursework, degree-seekers also complete various general education classes in preparation for their transfer to a four-year institution.

What Are AA in Computer Science Program Admission Requirements?

• High school diploma/GED: AA programs typically require students to have their high school diploma or GED. That said, some programs offer dual enrollment where high school seniors can complete college-level coursework before graduation.
• Standardized test scores: While not always necessary, some programs require applicants to submit SAT, ACT, or ACCUPLACER scores.
• Completed Application: When applying to any college program, you must complete your application entirely. Omitting a crucial requirement can make the difference between admission and rejection.
• Academic Transcripts: While most programs do not have a minimum GPA requirement, you will need to submit transcripts from your high school and any other institutions previously attended.
• Resume: A resume laying out professional and volunteer work gives the admissions office a better idea about your interests and activities outside the classroom.

In 2020, computer and information systems managers earned median salaries of $151,150, making it one of the best-paid jobs in the industry. The good news is that these positions require only a bachelor’s degree in computer science, making it possible to earn a six-figure salary and solve complex computer issues after only four years of education. 

Students considering this path can learn much about what a computer science bachelor’s degree entails, where it leads after graduation, and how they can find support along the way.

Pursuing an online bachelor of computer science provides the credentials and training individuals need to qualify for myriad roles in the field. Whether a student feels more drawn to software design, information technology, or computer network management, plenty of jobs exist to meet individual needs and interests. 

Bachelor of Computer Science Salaries and Career Outlook

Jobs for computer science degree graduates pay generous salaries and offer room for growth, making them competitive among professionals. Computer network architects brought home median salaries of $116,780 in 2020, while their peers working as database administrators earned $98,860 over the same period. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects both of these roles will expand in the coming decade, but projections do not guarantee job growth.

Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree Career Paths

Completing a bachelor’s degree in computer science provides the training students need to qualify for a whole range of exciting and well-paying jobs. We look at four great options below.

Courses in Computer Science Bachelor’s Programs

As students review the curricula of prospective programs, they will soon notice that, while courses vary by school, most have some overlap in core class requirements. Aside from general education courses, some topics frequently on offer include:

• Software Engineering
• Theory and Practice of Algorithms
• Operating Systems
• Discrete Structures and Applications
• Systems Security
• Principles of Human-Computer Interaction
• Computer Architecture
• Artificial Intelligence
• Database Systems and Data Structures

Bachelor’s in computer science programs typically include a capstone course that students must complete to graduate. 

Skills Learned in a Bachelor of Computer Science Degree Program

Graduates of computer science bachelor’s degrees walk away with plenty of skills that can help them secure future jobs or pursue an advanced degree. In addition to gaining a deeper knowledge of computer and technology workings, learners also delve into topics such as data analysis, software development, computer programming, cybersecurity, technical writing, and network management. 

Some of the soft skills typically learned include problem-solving, teamwork, attention to detail, time management, and how to communicate with many different types of colleagues and clients. 

How Long Does it Take to Get an Online Computer Science Degree?

The majority of computer science bachelor’s degrees require four years of full-time study, but several factors can affect this timeline. Students who previously completed coursework at another institution can typically transfer those credits, leading to less time enrolled. Similarly, accelerated programs cover the material more quickly and allow students to graduate in about three years. Conversely, part-time learners usually need between 5-6 years to graduate.

Bachelor of Science vs. Bachelor of Arts

Many schools offer both B.A. and B.S. programs in computer science, leading some students to wonder about the differences. While the core computer science curriculum remains the same, a B.S. typically leads to more opportunities for specialization within the field. The B.A., conversely, provides more opportunities for electives that could result in a second major or a complementary minor. 

Admission Requirements for Bachelor of Computer Science Programs

Admission requirements can vary based on the schools to which a student applies, but most require all of the basic components listed below.

• Official Transcripts: Schools require official transcripts from any high schools or colleges previously attended, as these provide proof of stated GPA and insight into which classes the student has taken.
• Standardized Test Scores: Most schools require SAT or ACT scores to help get a baseline for students’ knowledge in key topics. Learners should check prospective schools’ websites to see about minimum required scores.
• Essays: Essays provide the opportunity for degree seekers to show what is unique about them, their life experiences, and their hopes for the future. 
• Letters of Recommendation: Recommendation letters play an important part in giving admissions panels an insider’s look at a candidate’s personality, work ethic, and potential for success in an undergraduate computer science degree.

It’s no secret that computer science is a hot major in our ever growing digital world! The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the entire computer and IT industry will grow 11% in the coming decade.1 By comparison, the combined average growth for all other occupations is only 4%! Clearly, a degree in computer science is a worthy investment. But should you stop with only a bachelor’s or keep going to finish a computer science master’s degree? 

What exactly is a Master’s Degree in Computer Science? As with any graduate degree, a master’s is designed to expand upon the educational foundation from undergraduate coursework, such as programming languages in this case. Computer science grad programs build on prior skills learned, but they also venture deeper into advanced topics such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, software engineering, and databases. It’s not just a continuation of what you learned before though. A master’s opens new avenues to explore and provides opportunities for specialization. 

Most universities offer this degree as a master of science, which takes two to three years of study beyond the bachelor’s degree. Many schools host flexible online programs, making it more convenient for working or out-of-area students to attend the program of their choice! 

List of 10 Computer Science Master’s Degree Specializations

It’s common for Master’s in Computer Science programs to offer specialization options to students. Some common CS specializations are:

1. Artificial Intelligence – AI is currently the hottest trend in the computer science world. It involves teaching computers to perform tasks humans can do (but better!), such as recognizing patterns and voices or making decisions using cognition. 
2. Cloud Computing – One of the more critical and fastest-growing industries in the IT world, cloud computing, makes resources available on-demand over the internet. 
3. Cybersecurity – Also called information technology security or various other terms, this area focuses on protecting computers, networks, mobile devices, and associated technology from malicious outsider attacks. 
4. Data Science – This specialization teaches students how to extract and exploit data to gain valuable insights for organizational decision-making. 
5. Game Design – Game Designs covers infrastructure researching and development related to software and hardware, as well as cognition (ideas for modeling simulated characters and storylines) and immersion.
6. Human-Computer Interaction – HCI is a multidisciplinary study of the way people engage with computer technology in order to make improvements and innovations. 
7. Bioinformatics – This focus area deals with the methods and tools used for recognizing, storing, and analyzing complex biological data sets using a variety of techniques. 
8. Information Systems – Information systems work to serve data-intensive apps using integrated sets of components. Companies like Amazon, eBay, and Google rely on sophisticated information systems for their operations. 
9. Machine Learning – ML is tied to artificial intelligence and focused on using data and algorithms to create predictive models. 
10. Software Engineering – This CS field utilizes methodical practices to develop and test software and applications to meet user requirements. 

Courses in Computer Science Master’s Programs

Every online master of computer science program is different, and many courses vary by program. That being said, students can anticipate some overlap in coursework regardless of where they choose to study. 

Some of the most common class options learners see in the curricula include:

• Computer Networks and Database Management
• Computer Systems
• Computer Language Theory
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
• Software Engineering
• Computer Engineering
• Web Application Development
• Cybersecurity
• Analysis of Algorithms

Many programs also require students to complete prerequisites in specific courses prior to acceptance or in their first term of studies. Schools also require students to complete several electives, great for specializing a degree. 

Skills Learned in a Master of Computer Science Program

Given that computer science is an ever-evolving field, earning a master’s degree ensures graduates possess the latest knowledge and skills to help move their organizations forward. 

The skills a learner gains vary based on their chosen program and specialization, but a few practical skills most graduates leave with include:

• Programming: Whether using Javascript, Python, Ruby on Rails, or one of the many other programming languages commonly harnessed, graduates possess a deepened knowledge of how to code in these languages and an ability to assess which one best suits the project at hand.
• Mathematics: All proficient computer science graduates develop a baseline knowledge in areas of calculus, linear algebra, statistics, and other branches of the discipline commonly used in the field.
• Data Analysis: Because data management, storage, visualization, and security play such an important role in the world of computer science, programs typically spend ample time ensuring students possess the skills needed to properly analyze and work with various types of data. 
• Time Management: Computer science is a fast-moving field, and professionals work with quick turnarounds and tight schedules. Understanding how to manage time effectively can separate a good computer scientist and a great one.
• Problem-Solving: Much of computer science revolves around concepts like logic and math, requiring professionals in this arena to solve problems when things like networks, databases, and software malfunction. The best computer science graduates possess a good mix of both problem-solving skills and creativity.

Master’s in Computer Science Salary

According to data from PayScale, the average salary for employees with a Master’s in Computer Science degree is $103,813.2 

In comparison, computer science workers with only a bachelor’s earn $85,691 on average. That’s more than an $18,000 a year difference. Over the span of a two-decade career, that average difference adds up to roughly $362,000 — enough to pay for a nice house in most states! 

Salaries vary depending on the actual role, of course, so here’s a sampling taken from wages reported on PayScale. 

How Long Does It Take to Earn a Master’s in Computer Science?

On average, a Master’s in Computer Science takes two years to complete if attending school full-time. However, part-time students may take three to five years, depending on their course load each term. 

Online programs can be helpful to speed things up since they eliminate the need to commute, and students have more flexibility about attendance times. Here are a few examples:

1. Syracuse University advertises that their MS in Computer Science can be done in as few as 15 months.3 
2. The number of required credit hours depends on the program itself, plus whether or not any prerequisites must be taken or whether or not a thesis option is selected. For example, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign requires 28 credit hours of coursework plus 4 thesis credit hours (for a total of 32 hours).4 
3. The University of New Orleans requires 30 credit hours for a thesis-based MS or 36 for a non-thesis option.5

Two other factors that can expedite completion are transferring credits and signing up for an accelerated BS/MS program. Accelerated programs are often designed to be finished within five years (four for the bachelor’s plus one extra to complete the master’s).  

How Much Does It Cost to Earn a Computer Science Master’s?

As noted by U.S. News & World Report, “a school’s sticker price is rarely the actual amount families pay for college.”6 That’s because most students utilize financial aid from either federal programs, scholarships, or other sources. However, it’s still essential to look at the actual costs of a Master’s in Computer Science program. 

Several factors impact the cost of a degree. All universities have different tuition rates, with private schools tending to cost much more. Ivy League institutions can run into the tens of thousands of dollars per year. 

Meanwhile, even within the same university, rates can vary from program to program. For example, Harvard’s MS in Computational Science and Engineering costs $58,244 per year, compared to $50,928 for other Harvard degrees in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.7 

Even outside of such high-end schools, tuition rates vary wildly. Two-year, on-campus programs can cost as much as $30,000 or more, on average. However, many universities offer online programs at significant savings to help offset escalating costs and decrease barriers to access. For instance, Georgia Institute of Technology’s Online MS in Computer Science has a program cost of roughly $7,000, making it one of the most affordable and flexible options we’ve seen (and even praised by President Barack Obama for its low cost). 

Another advantage of online programs is that you may attend a school outside your state without being charged an exorbitant out-of-state tuition rate. 

It’s important to shop around and make cost comparisons to ensure you’re getting your best value for the money. Along with tuition fees, the cost of a computer science master’s degree program will also include books, technology materials (laptop, camera, microphone, WiFi, etc.), and other supplies. In addition, students attending in-person will also need to budget for medical insurance, transportation and parking expenses, costs for coffee, snacks, and eating out, entertainment and event admission prices, and other residual expenses that can add up quickly. 

Grad students are also highly encouraged to review all of their federal aid options and pay close attention to deadlines. If you’re thinking about a loan, have a look at federal versus private loan options and closely read the fine print to ensure you understand all the terms.

Whenever possible, take the time to apply for scholarships, even if they are relatively small. It may seem like a hassle to go through those scholarship application processes, but it’s better than taking loans or using a high-interest credit card to pay for your education! 

Pros and Cons of Pursuing a Master’s in Computer Science

While this guide can’t predict every person’s unique circumstances, there are several general trends we can spot related to the pros and cons to pursuing a Master’s in Computer Science:

Pros

• Greater big-picture understanding of the field 
• Ability to specialize in areas that interest you the most
• Increased competitiveness in future job markets
• Broader, more impactful career opportunities around the world  
• Enhanced promotion potential
• Higher annual salary adding up to significantly greater lifetime earnings

Cons

• The rising cost of graduate tuition and expenses
• Additional time and study commitments 
• May delay entry into the workforce, if attending school full-time

So…Is It Worth It?

Do the pros outweigh the cons? Only you can make that determination. The wide world of higher education is well aware of the downsides and is making strides to mitigate those. Flexible distance education options are empowering students to attend master’s programs while keeping their day jobs. Online programs are also helping to reduce costs by reducing the time it takes to finish a degree. 

Meanwhile, government initiatives are seeking to address the rising cost of education, with the aim of increasing accessibility and reducing student loan burdens. 

As the Department of Education states, 

“In today’s economy, higher education is no longer a luxury for the privileged few, but a necessity for individual economic opportunity and America’s competitiveness in the global economy. At a time when jobs can go anywhere in the world, skills and education will determine success for individuals and for nations. As a result, a college education remains the best investment a student can make in his or her future.”

Private employers are also getting in on the action, offering tuition reimbursement incentives to workers. From tech giants like Amazon to fast-food franchises such as McDonald’s, companies are recognizing the value that an educated workforce brings to the table!

Admission Requirements for Master of Computer Science Programs

• Prerequisite Courses: Learners who didn’t study computer science or a related topic during their undergraduate degree may need to complete these before enrolling.
• Minimum GPA: Admission departments want to see candidates who put in the work to achieve reasonable grades.
• Professional Experience: Some programs look for applicants who have worked in computer science or a related area for a set amount of time to build real-world skills they can apply to assignments.
• GRE/GMAT Scores: Some schools require scores from these standardized tests, and set minimum requirements. Students with lower scores may receive admittance if they possess a high GPA and/or work experience.

The field of computer science has seen exponential growth in the last decade as web-based apps and media platforms continue to grow. An online Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Computer Science prepares graduates for some of the highest-paying positions in the nation with technology firms of varying sizes.  

As industries continue to adopt digital technologies, the demand for graduates with postsecondary degrees in the field of computer science remains steady. Businesses like Google and Microsoft continue to hire web developers, coders, and other computer science specialists to manage their web-based platforms/services. 

What Can I Do With An Online PhD in Computer Science?

There are many viable career options for professionals with an online PhD in Computer Science. At tech corporations, start-ups, and in higher education, computer science professionals:

• Develop software
• Maintain data systems 
• Teach students coding theory
• Complete programmatic updates
• Maintain server security

Professionals with an online PhD in Computer Science provide in-demand services that continue to increase in value as countless entities adopt web-based platforms for business and internal use. 

Others who graduate with a PhD in Computer Science end up working in academia as a PhD satisfies minimum requirements for many colleges and universities. 

PhD in Computer Science Salaries and Career Outlook

Graduates with a PhD in Computer Science may pursue careers as:

• College Professors
• Computer Science Specialists
• Engineers
• Database Managers
• Research & Development 

Job growth in the computer science career field can vary depending on the position, and graduates should note that these statistics are reflections of the current job market that can fluctuate over time. 

Computer Science PhD Career Paths 

Pros And Cons Of PhD in Computer Science

Time, cost, and job placement are important factors to review when looking for a PhD program. Compared to a master’s degree in computer science, a PhD in Computer Science allows graduate students to gain access to higher-paying, upper-level positions in the tech and academic fields.

Due to the flexibility offered with an online program, doctoral students have the opportunity to complete their degree with sometimes little to no impact on their current day job.

Coursework In PhD in Computer Science Programs

Most classes included in computer science programs align with industry standards. Classes like Computer Languages, and Database Design, and Machine Learning provide students with a wide range of knowledge and skills to help them operate in a variety of roles post-graduation. 

Courses often include topics like data management, robotics, artificial intelligence, and software development. As a prerequisite to many of these classes, general knowledge of computer science and hardware can help students prepare for PhD-level coursework. 

Computer science graduate programs typically culminate in a research project. 

Skills Learned In PhD in Computer Science

With a PhD in Computer Science, graduates enter the workforce with a wide range of industry-specific skills. These programs build skills such as:

• Writing and improving code
• Website generation
• Advanced software engineering
• Communication
• Troubleshooting
• Operational functionality 
• Systems maintenance

How Long Does It Take To Get A PhD in Computer Science?

Some PhD programs take four years to complete, while others take up to five years. Most programs usually require 90 credit hours, including electives and the Teaching Assistantship requirement. An online PhD in Computer Science also typically takes between 4-5 years to complete. It’s always smart to research in-person and online formats to find the program that fits your schedule.

Factors that impact the length of a degree program include:

• Prior education (Master’s in Computer Science preferred)
• Accelerated course availability
• Synchronous vs asynchronous learning
• Part-time vs. full-time course loads

Admissions Requirements 

The first step to applying to any program is to check the admissions requirements to confirm the prerequisite experience needed to qualify. Most information technology programs require:

• Proof of completion of a 4-year bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Minimum GPA requirements – These vary depending on the program
• Official Transcript
• GRE test score 
• Application fee
• Letter of Intent
• Letters of recommendation 

It is always a good idea to submit applications to schools with varying rates of acceptance. You should also diversify your application list and include schools with high and low rates of admission.  

When reviewing potential jobs after graduation, students may notice that many require additional certification from employers. This is highly common within computer science, with many reputable organizations offering certificate pathways. Learners who aspire to work as information security analysts, for example, may be required to complete the Certified Information Systems Security Professional program offered by (ISC)². 

When looking at certification requirements, students should always pay close attention to any state-specific mandates as well as educational institution expectations.

The majority of computer science positions do not require licensure, but many employers do favor candidates who seek certification to add to their knowledge and stay up-to-date on changes in the field. Many organizations, such as (ISC)², provide a variety of certifications that students can complete online. Some employers may even pay for these certifications.

Associate Degree - Students with an Associate Degree in Computer Science can earn careers, like computer programming, network administration, and website design.

Master's Degree - Job opportunities for students with a Master's in Computer Science can look like software developers, computer and information systems management, research scientist, and computer network engineer or architect.

PhD - After receiving a PhD in Computer Science, graduates can enter the workforce immediately at top tech firms, internally at fortune corporations, and in the academic field in a teaching capacity.  

Due to the digital nature of computer science programs, many schools offer these associate degrees partially or entirely online. Especially useful for students balancing a complicated mix of personal, professional, and academic responsibilities, online learning allows students to complete course requirements at their own pace, on their own time.

Online courses often utilize asynchronous coursework that students complete at their own pace. Additionally, many classes have students engage with live lectures, Zoom meetings, and collaborative online group work.

And while online learning makes for an accessible and flexible academic option, some students prefer the consistent schedule and social element of on-campus learning. Know how you learn best and choose the delivery method that best fits your needs.

Should I Complete Courses Online?

While both online and in-person diplomas carry the same weight, online classes require self-motivation and self-discipline, and some students tend to fare better when working in an on-campus environment. That said, online degrees afford working students the opportunity to complete course requirements while keeping up with professional obligations.

Before enrolling in online classes, it is often helpful to discuss your academic plans with an advisor or admissions counselor. These professionals can help you figure out if online coursework is the educational path most likely to lead to success.

How Long do Online Computer Science Courses Take to Complete?

Schools traditionally run on a semester-based schedule, with each semester (and course) lasting approximately 16 weeks. Some students take advantage of programs offering accelerated courses lasting between 5-8 weeks. These allow them to graduate more quickly without sacrificing quality.

Some institutions use a competency-based model that allows degree seekers to move at their own pace. Once they feel they understand the material thoroughly, they can request to take their exams and complete the course. 

Students should also understand the difference between synchronous and asynchronous online classes. Asynchronous courses revolve around pre-recorded lectures, allowing students to complete work at times that suit their schedules. Synchronous classes, conversely, require real-time attendance.

Earning an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science

Completing a bachelor’s degree in computer science is easy given that many schools now offer partially and fully online programs in addition to traditional campus-based options. Studying online works for many busy learners who need to balance personal and professional obligations alongside their studies. In addition to cutting out a campus commute multiple times per week, distance learning provides more flexibility to complete assignments and watch lectures at times that work with individual schedules.

Online bachelor’s degrees in computer science provide the foundational knowledge needed to qualify for entry-level positions in a variety of industries. Whether an individual wants to start their own IT consulting company or work in-house for an organization, this degree leads to myriad professional opportunities. 

That said, some students decide they want the full campus experience, complete with a more consistent schedule and more access to social opportunities.

Pros and Cons of Online Programs in Computer Science 

Online vs In-Person Graduate Degrees

Potential computer science PhD applicants have options depending on their current schedule and employment status. Applicants should be aware that there are many online programs to choose from. 

• Online learning offers flexibility, though on-campus learning can provide additional networking opportunities that may improve the job search post-graduation. 
• On-campus, students learn interpersonal skills that benefit them in professional settings. 
• If students choose to study online, this can be a great way to balance a job while completing the doctoral program. 

There is no right option between the two, though most doctoral students likely prefer one option over the other.

Earning an Online Master’s Degree in Computer Science

Online master’s degree programs in computer science can set graduates up for success in a variety of different roles and industries. Available both online and in-person at public and private universities alike, grad students can easily find an option that suits their needs. 

We’ve examined a few components of the degree to help prospective learners know what to expect from a computer science graduate degree.

Pros and Cons of Online Graduate Programs in Computer Science 

Undertaking a computer science master’s program online requires degree seekers to invest substantial amounts of time, money, and energy. Before doing so, consider both the pros and cons of this important decision.

Individuals looking for a stable, well-paying job with plenty of room to grow often gravitate towards computer science occupations — and for good reason. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects roles in this field will expand by 11% between 2019-2029, leading to the creation of more than half a million new positions. With median annual salaries topping $91,250 in 2020, computer science jobs also provide ample pay. 

As a computer science professional, your job is to: 

• Observe, listen to, and communicate with clients
• Understand various computer languages such as
  • Python, HTML, Java, C++ and more
• Offer strategies to ensure the functionality of web-based platforms
• Collaborate with UX specialists to ensure website functionality 

Depending on the industry or client, computer science specialists may work in-house or be contracted externally. 

Computer Science Career Resources

• IEEE - IEEE is a professional organization dedicated to technological advancement for the benefit of humanity. This group fosters global conversation and collaboration of fellow computer science professionals.
• ACM - This membership-based organization provides students and professionals in the computer technology sector with educational and networking opportunities. They offer credentialing services, publications, and scholarships to members to further their careers in the field.
• Upsilon Pi Epsilon - UPE is the first honor society dedicated to the computing profession and provides networking and continuing education opportunities to students and young people in the field. This group is connected directly to IEEE and fosters educational and professional growth for students seeking a career in computer science. 
• Association for Women in Computing: Founded in 1978, this premier organization works to support women and their advancement in computer science fields. The group provides local chapters, networking, mentoring, and continuing education.
• Association for Computing Machinery: With the goal of advancing computing as both a science and a profession, ACM supports the industry by providing in-house publications, conferences, awards, and educational programming.
• Association for Information Science & Technology: ASIS&T looks to bring together the practical and academic sciences of computer science by providing information on careers, a new leaders program, publications, and both in-person and online events.
• Computer Science Teachers Association: CSTA supports K-12 computer science educators by providing curriculum standards, teaching resources, state chapters, fellowships, and mentorship opportunities.
• IIIE Computer Society: For nearly 80 years, IEEE has worked to support and advance computer science professionals by providing scholarships, chapters, industry news, and details on available jobs in the industry.

• http://www.geekwire.com/2014/analysis-examining-computer-science-education-explosion/
• Payscale
• U.S. News & World Report
• The Chronicle of Higher Education
• StudentAid.gov
• Dept of Education
• Payscale.com
• BLS
• https://upe.acm.org/
• https://www.computer.org/
• https://cse.gatech.edu/academics/computer-science-phd-program
• https://www.cs.ubc.ca/students/grad/prospective-grads/grad-programs/phd-track-msc-program
• Walden University
• (ISC)²
• Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
• College Board
• Harvard Business Review
• Brookings Institute
• IBM
• Indeed Hiring Lab
• Indeed.com
• Genome.gov
• McKinsey
• Gartner
• Monster.com